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🍽️ Classic Ratatouille Recipe: A Colorful French Vegetable Delight

Introduction

If you're searching for a wholesome, vibrant, and flavor-packed dish that celebrates the bounty of fresh vegetables, look no further than classic Ratatouille. Originating from Provence, France, this traditional vegetable stew is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, known for its simplicity and depth of flavor. It is vegan, gluten-free, and perfect as a side or main course.

Ingredients

• 1 eggplant (aubergine), diced
• 1 zucchini (courgette), sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp herbes de Provence
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Dice and chop all your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add the sliced onions and garlic, cooking over medium heat until translucent.
3. Cook the vegetables separately: In the same pan, sauté each vegetable (eggplant, zucchini, peppers) one at a time with a bit of olive oil, for about 5–7 minutes each, until slightly tender.
4. Combine and simmer: Once all vegetables are cooked, combine them in the pan. Add the chopped tomatoes and herbes de Provence. Season with salt and pepper. Stir gently.
5. Simmer on low heat: Let the mixture simmer for 25–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and garnish: Serve hot or cold, garnished with fresh basil or thyme. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, couscous, or rice.

Tips for Success

• For a chunkier ratatouille, avoid overcooking the vegetables.

• Use seasonal, ripe vegetables for best flavor.

• This dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen overnight.

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Nutritional Benefits

Ratatouille is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. It supports heart health, aids digestion, and fits well into vegan, low-carb, and Mediterranean diet plans.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're exploring French cuisine or simply looking for a healthy and hearty dish, ratatouille is a versatile option that delivers both taste and nutrition. Perfect for family dinners or elegant occasions, it remains a beloved symbol of Provençal culinary heritage.